Alignment guide with spirit level

ABSTRACT

An alignment guide is described that includes a shaft having a longitudinal axis and a housing attachable to the shaft and rotatable about a first axis that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A guide arm the extends from the housing at a predetermined angle along a second axis. A spirit level is connected to the housing on a plane aligned with the predetermined angle.

The present invention relates to an alignment guide. In particular, the present invention relates to an alignment guide for aligning an instrument, more particularly an alignment guide for use with the implantation of a hip cup.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Hip replacement surgery typically is performed to compensate for severe damage of the acetabulum due to disease, trauma or other factors, and includes the steps of removing all or part of the existing joint and substituting for the removed bone a femoral component attached to the patient's femur and an acetabular cup attached to the patient's acetabulum. The prosthetic acetabular cup is implanted to substitute for the socket of the hip joint, and is mated with a prosthetic femoral component to complete the hip replacement surgery. In order to achieve optimal performance of the combined acetabular and femoral prostheses, the acetabular cup must be properly positioned in the acetabulum. An improperly positioned acetabular component can lead to dislocations of the hip joint, decreased range of motion, and eventual loosening or failure of one or both of the acetabular and femoral components.

Acetabular cups may be formed of a metal, ceramic or plastic. Incorrect acetabular component positioning can lead to edge loading and undesirable effects across bearings composed of any material, such as dislocation, increased wear, ceramic squeaking, elevated metal ion release and fractures. Studies of post-operative cup placement demonstrate that seating the cup in particular orientations provides for improved wear patterns compared with seating the cup in other orientations. For example, a study by Langton et al., entitled “The Effect of Component Size and Orientation on the Concentrations of Metal Ions after Resurfacing Arthroplasty of the Hip”, and published in the Journal of Bone Joint Surgery (2008; 90-B:1143-51) demonstrates that the version angle (as measured on EBRA software) may influence wear. To improve the wear of the cup and the product performance of the hip system, a surgeon endeavours to seat the cup in an orientation that is predicted to provide good wear patterns in accordance with the post-operative studies.

In preparation for surgery, the patient is x-rayed in the same two planes as those provided for in the post-operative studies. The surgeon then uses the x-rays as a means of preliminarily planning the size of the acetabular and femoral prostheses and the position of each when surgery is complete. During surgery, the surgeon uses a reamer to remove bone to form a hemispherical shape in the acetabulum. The reamed acetabulum enables a nearly unlimited number of angular cup positions as the cup may be seated at any angle within the hemisphere.

Next, the surgeon attaches the cup to an inserter/impactor and attempts to position the cup in a way that approximates the planned-for angles in the pre-operative plan. Surgeons often have difficulty in performing this step as he or she must manipulate the cup in three dimensions while attempting to correct for angular changes that occur when translating the pre-operative radiographic angle into operative angles. Thus, a common cause of malpositioning is the difference between the radiographic angles provided in the pre-operative plan and the operative angles observed by the surgeon.

FIG. 1 depicts the difference in the projection of angles seen from different views. For example, 45° of inclination and 30° of anteversion achieved in the operative environment will provide a steeper inclination angle of 50° when displayed on an A/P radiograph. To achieve a position that will provide a 45° inclination angle on the A/P radiograph, the surgeon must adjust the operative inclination angle. Thus, to succeed in positioning the cup at a desired angle, the surgeon needs to translate the information from the post-operative studies generated in two dimensions at a first viewing angle into data that is useful when in the operating theatre, where the surgeon operates in three dimensions and observes the patient at a viewing angle that is not the viewing angle provided in an A/P radiograph.

To assist surgeons in accurately locating and aligning prostheses and instruments, surgeons commonly rely on instruments. Inclination and version guides are widely used during total hip arthroplasty to assist in aligning the acetabular cup. Separate guides may be provided for inclination and version angle. Alternatively, a combined guide may be provided. One known form of combined alignment guide enables the position of the acetabular cup to be set at an angle relative to the floor of the operating room and the long axis of the patient. Such an alignment guide (that provides a measure of operative angles to position the cup inserter in surgery) does not directly represent what the surgeon will see post-operatively on an A/P radiograph. As discussed earlier, all of the clinical analysis on cup wear has been based on post-operative measurements. As a result, the surgeon aims to position the cup to match as closely as possible the desired position as shown in a post-operative radiograph of the cup. The disadvantage of using operative angles in surgery is that, as you vary operative anteversion, the radiographic inclination angle of the cup changes.

It is an object of embodiments of the present invention to obviate or mitigate one or more of the problems associated with the prior art, whether identified herein or elsewhere.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an alignment guide that accounts for changes in inclination when the user adjusts the version angle so as to more accurately position the cup inserter in surgery. Further, an embodiment of the alignment guide can be designed such that adjustment of inclination and version angles are made independently of each other. One embodiment of the alignment guide uses a spirit level to indicate when the alignment guide is positioned at a predetermined inclination and/or version angle.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an alignment guide that includes a shaft having a longitudinal axis; a housing attached to the shaft and rotatable about a first axis that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; a guide arm that extends from the housing at a predetermined angle along a second axis; and a spirit level connected to the housing on a plane aligned with the predetermined angle.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of using the alignment guide to position a cup or trial in a patient's acetabulum. The method is for aligning an alignment guide relative to a reamed acetabulum of a patient having a long axis positioned on an operating table, and includes the steps of:

manipulating an alignment guide comprising a shaft having a distal end and a longitudinal axis, a guide arm rotatably attached to the shaft about a first axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a spirit level attached to the guide arm, the spirit level including a container having a liquid, a bubble disposed within the container, and at least one indicator marking on the container;

rotating the guide arm about the first axis relative to the shaft;

contacting the distal end of the shaft with the reamed acetabulum; and

while maintaining contact between the distal end of the shaft and the reamed acetabulum, adjusting the position of the alignment guide until the bubble is positioned beneath the at least one indicator marking.

The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating the operative and A/P radiographic viewing angles of a patient lying in a lateral decubitus position ready for surgery;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of an alignment guide in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an alignment guide in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alignment guide in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 2, wherein the guide arm is shown separated from the shaft;

FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of an alignment guide in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alignment guide in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention the alignment guide;

FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the alignment guide of FIG. 6 taken along lines 7-7 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the alignment guide of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is an partially exploded perspective view of the alignment guide of FIG. 6, having ratchet springs and pins omitted for clarity;

FIGS. 10A and 10B are, respectively, top and bottom plan views of the alignment guide of FIG. 6 at a first position, wherein the guide arm is co-planar with the shaft;

FIGS. 11A, 11B and 11C are, respectively, a top plan, bottom plan and perspective view of the alignment guide of FIG. 6 at a second position, wherein the guide arm is not co-planar with the shaft;

FIGS. 12A, 13A and 14A illustrate side elevational views of steps of a first method of using one of the first, second or third alignment guides of the present invention on a patient lying in a left lateral decubitus position;

FIGS. 12B, 13B and 14B illustrate plan views of the steps illustrated in FIGS. 12A, 13A and 14A, respectively;

FIG. 14C illustrates a perspective plan view of the step illustrated in 14A and 14B;

FIGS. 15A, 16A and 17A illustrate side elevational views of steps of a second method of using one of the first, second or third alignment guides of the present invention on a patient lying in a dorsal decubitus position;

FIGS. 15B, 16B and 17B illustrate plan views of the steps illustrated in FIGS. 15A, 16A and 17A, respectively; FIG. 17C illustrates a perspective plan view of the step illustrated in 17A and 17B;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an alignment guide that includes two spirit levels in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an alignment guide that includes a bulls-eye type spirit level in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20A illustrates the side elevational view of a fourth method in accordance with the invention using the fourth alignment guide of the present invention on a patient lying in a left lateral decubitus position;

FIGS. 20B and 20C illustrate plan views of additional steps of the fourth method;

FIGS. 21A-21D illustrate plan views of the position of the bubbles in the spirit level of the fourth embodiment when the guide is positioned at different inclination and version angles according to the fourth method;

FIG. 22A illustrates the side elevational view of a fifth method in accordance with the invention using the fifth alignment guide of the present invention on a patient lying in a left lateral decubitus position;

FIGS. 22B and 22C illustrate plan views of additional steps of the fifth method using the fifth alignment guide; and

FIGS. 23A-23D illustrate plan views of the position of the bubbles in the spirit level of the fourth embodiment when the guide is positioned at different inclination and version angles according to the fourth method.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a first embodiment of the alignment guide is generally referenced as reference numeral 20. Alignment guide 20 includes a shaft 21 having a longitudinal axis A and a guide arm, generally referenced as reference numeral 30, releasably attached to shaft 21. Alignment guide 20 may be attached to a cup or trial 40 at distal end 22 of shaft 21. Alignment guide 20 may include a handle 24 attached at proximal end 23 of shaft 21. Guide arm 30 may be attached to shaft 21 such that shaft 21 and guide arm 30 are co-planar in a first position. Guide arm 30 is preferably configured such that guide arm 30 may be detached from shaft 21, rotated to a second position about a first axis B substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A at which position guide arm 30 is out of plane with shaft 21, and then re-attached to shaft 21. Alternatively, guide arm 30 may be spring biased with respect to shaft 21 such that a user could apply a force to overcome the spring bias to separate guide arm from shaft 21 to rotate guide arm 30 and shaft 21 with respect to one another.

Guide arm 30 includes a first portion 32, a second portion 34 and a third portion 36. Preferably, first portion 32, second portion 34 and third portion 36 of guide arm 30 are co-planar. First portion 32 is attachable to shaft 21 and is rotatable about a first axis B that is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A. Second portion 34 may be attached at the distal end of first portion 32 or at some point along the length of first portion 32. Second portion 34 extends from first portion 32 at a first predetermined angle α along a second axis C. In a preferred embodiment, first predetermined angle α ranges from 30 to 50 degrees, and more preferably approximately 40 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the distal end of first portion 32 transitions smoothly to second portion 34 at transition 33. Third portion 36 may be attached at the distal end of second portion 34 or at some point along the length of first portion 34. In a preferred embodiment, the distal end of second portion 34 transitions smoothly to third portion 36 at transition 35. Third portion 36 extends from second portion 34 at a second predetermined angle γ along a third axis D. In a preferred embodiment, second predetermined angle γ is approximately 90 degrees.

Shaft 21 may include a base 27 that extends from a surface of shaft 21 in a direction generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis A. It is understood that base 27 can be formed in shaft 21 or be a separate component that is attached to shaft 21, in which case base 27 may be glued or welded to shaft 21, for example. Referring to FIG. 4, base 27 has a first recess 28 and at least two slots 29 a, 29 b. In a preferred embodiment, first portion 32 of guide arm 30 includes a cover 37 that has a protrusion 38 sized and shaped to be at least partially received within recess 28, and a tab 39 sized and shaped to be at least partially received within each of the at least two slots 29 a, 29 b. In this way, cover 37 and base 27 are configured to be attached to one another in more than one orientation. Cover 37 can be detached from base 27 and mated with base 27 such that protrusion 38 is disposed within recess 28 and tab 39 is disposed within slot 29 a. If the surgeon chooses, cover 37 can be detached from base 27, rotated with respect to axis B, and then mated with base 27 such that protrusion 38 is disposed within recess 28 and tab 39 is disposed within slot 29 b. Base 27 can be cylindrical in shape and first recess 28 can be located centrally to facilitate rotation of guide arm 30. Protrusion 38 can extend further from cover 37 than tab 39 such that at least a portion of protrusion 38 is disposed within recess 28 when the user disengages tab 39 from slots 29 a, 29 b to facilitate rotation and the mating of recesses and tabs.

While FIG. 4 depicts two slots 29 a, 29 b, it is understood that base 27 could include a plurality of slots 29 that are spaced apart at predetermined intervals such that guide arm 30 can be rotated about axis B with respect to shaft 21 at known angular increments. In this way, because guide arm 30 is attached to cover 37, guide arm 30 may be attached to shaft 21 in a position where guide arm 30 is coplanar with longitudinal axis A of shaft 21 or out of plane with respect to shaft 21 by the angular increment that guide arm 30 was rotated with respect to shaft 21. In a preferred embodiment, up to fifteen slots could be provided at increments of three to ten degrees, but most preferably five degree increments. As one skilled in the art will understand, base 27 and cover 37 can be configured to attach in other ways. For example, base 27 can have a protrusion that extends from an upper surface that is configured to be received in a recess in cover 37. Similarly, base 27 can include a tab that extends upwardly that is configured to be received within slots formed in cover 37. Alternatively, cover 37 and base 27 can have a combination of tabs and slots, and/or protrusions and recesses that enable a user to attach cover 37 and base 27 to one another at two or more positions. The tab and slot features could be located on the perimeter of base 27 and cover 37 and/or could communicate with the perimeter of base 27 and cover 37 and/or be located within the perimeter of the body of one or the other or both base 27 and cover 37. Protrusion 38 may be spring biased with respect to base 27 by attaching a spring (not shown) to protrusion 38 (or cover 37) and base 27. In this way, a user could apply a force to overcome the spring bias to separate cover 37 from base 27 a distance that disengages tab 39 from slots 29 and permits cover 37 to be rotated with respect to base 27.

In each of the embodiments described herein, shaft 21 may be attachable directly to cup or trial 40 or attachable to a separate component that is itself attachable to cup or trial 40. The separate component need not be aligned with longitudinal axis A along its entire length, but preferably attaches to cup or trial 40 at a point that is collinear with longitudinal axis A or at least parallel to longitudinal axis A. Thus, shaft 21 may be a short shaft that is attachable to an inserter shaft that is attachable to cup or trial 40. Alternatively, shaft 21 may have a proximal portion that defines longitudinal axis A and a distal portion that is curved and/or has at least two lengths that are not parallel to longitudinal axis A.

Referring to FIG. 5, a second embodiment of an alignment guide 120 is depicted. Similar structures are labelled similarly to the corresponding structures of the first embodiment. Alignment guide 120 includes a shaft 121 having a longitudinal axis A, and a guide arm, generally indicated as reference numeral 130, releasably attached to shaft 121. Alignment guide 120 may be attached to a cup or trial 140 at distal end 122 of shaft 121. Alignment guide 120 may include a handle 124 attached at proximal end 123 of shaft 121. Guide arm 130 may be attached to shaft 121 such that shaft 121 and guide arm 130 are co-planar in a first position. Guide arm 130 is preferably configured such that guide arm 130 may be rotated to a second position about a first axis B substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A at which position guide arm 130 is out of plane with shaft 121.

Guide arm 130 includes a housing 132 that is attached to shaft 121, a first portion 134 attached to housing 132, and a second portion 136 attached to first portion 134. Housing 132 includes a base 127 attached to shaft 121, and a cover 137 rotatable relative to base 127 about first axis B. First portion 134 extends from housing 132 along a second axis C at a first predetermined angle α. Second portion 136 extends from first portion 134 at a second predetermined angle γ. In a preferred embodiment, second predetermined angle γ is approximately 90 degrees. As with the first embodiment, first portion 34 may be attached at the distal end of housing 132 or at some point along the length of housing 132. First portion 134 may attach directly to housing 132 or attach to housing 132 via a linking portion 133 that transitions from first portion 134 to housing 132. Linking portion 133 may transition from axis C to axis B along a straight or curved line. Second portion 136 may be attached at the distal end of first portion 134 or at some point along the length of first portion 134. In a preferred embodiment, the distal end of first portion 134 transitions smoothly to second portion 136 at transition 135. Base 127 and cover 137 may be configured to be lockable with respect to one another.

As with the first embodiment, base 127 extends from a surface of shaft 121 in a direction generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis A. Base 127 can be formed in shaft 121 or be a separate component that is attached to shaft 121. Base 127 may be glued or welded to shaft 21, for example. As with the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, cover 137 and base 127 may have a combination of features, such as slots/recesses and protrusions/tab, to permit cover 137 and base 127 to be attached to one another at different angular positions relative to longitudinal axis A. It is understood that each of the different combinations of mating features described with respect to the first embodiment may be employed to attach or mate cover 137 and base 127. Because guide arm 130 is attached to cover 137, guide arm 130 may be attached to shaft 21 in a position where guide arm 30 is coplanar with longitudinal axis A of shaft 121 or out of plane with respect to longitudinal axis A of shaft 21 by the angular increment that guide arm 30 was rotated with respect to shaft 21. As with the first embodiment, the angular increments can be provided in known increments of, for instance, three to ten degrees, but most preferably five degree increments.

Referring to Referring to FIGS. 6-9, a third embodiment of an alignment guide 220 is depicted. Similar structures are labelled similarly to the corresponding structures of the prior embodiments. Alignment guide 220 includes a shaft 221 having a longitudinal axis A, and a guide arm, generally indicated as reference numeral 230, releasably attached and rotatably attached to shaft 221. Alignment guide 220 may be attached to a cup or trial (not shown) at distal end 222 of shaft 221. Alignment guide 120 may include a handle 224 attached at proximal end 223 of shaft 221. Guide arm 230 may be attached to shaft 221 such that shaft 221 and guide arm 230 are co-planar in a first position. Guide arm 230 is preferably configured such that guide arm 230 may be rotated to a second position about a first axis B substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A at which position guide arm 230 is out of plane with shaft 221. Preferably, guide arm 230 is rotatable in angular increments with respect to shaft 221. As with the first two embodiments, the angular increments can be provided in known increments of, for instance, three to ten degrees, but most preferably five degree increments.

Guide arm 230 includes a first portion 232, a second portion 234 and a third portion 236. Second portion 234 may be attached at the distal end of first portion 232 or at some point along the length of first portion 232. In a preferred embodiment, the distal end of first portion 232 transitions smoothly to second portion 234. Third portion 236 may be attached at the distal end of second portion 234 or at some point along the length of first portion 234. In a preferred embodiment, the distal end of second portion 234 transitions smoothly to third portion 236. Second portion 234 extends from first portion 232 at a first predetermined angle α along a second axis C. In a preferred embodiment, first predetermined angle α ranges from 30 to 50 degrees, and more preferably approximately 40 degrees. Third portion 236 extends from second portion 234 at a second predetermined angle γ along a third axis D. In a preferred embodiment, second predetermined angle γ is approximately 90 degrees.

The third embodiment differs from the first two embodiments in that the mechanisms for detachably attaching guide arm 230 to shaft 221 and rotating guide arm 230 with respect to shaft 221 are more complex. As shown in FIGS. 6-8, guide arm 230 is attached to a clip 250 which is adapted to be releasably attached to a housing 240, which in turn is attached to shaft 221. Housing 240 includes a base 227 attached to shaft 221 and a cap 241 attached to an upper portion of base 227. A bezel 237 is rotatably attached to base 227 about a first axis B, which is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A. Bezel 237 is preferably captured within housing 240 between base 227 and cap 241, and is configured to be rotatable with respect to base 127 and lockable with respect to base 127 at discrete positions.

Base 227 of housing 240 is mounted or attached to shaft 221. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7, shaft 221 is circular in cross-section (though shaft 221 may have any cross-sectional shape), and includes a platform 260 formed on a proximal portion of shaft 221. Platform 260 preferably has a generally rectilinear cross-section and one side that is flat so as to more readily attach base 227 to that side. Base 227 may be attached to platform 260 (or directly to shaft 221) in any manner known to one skilled in the art, but one in which permits no relative movement between base 227 and shaft 221. For example, depending upon the material of base 227, it may be glued or welded to platform 260.

Preferably base 227 includes a ring 227 a that has an inner surface with teeth 227 b formed thereon over at least a segment of the inner surface. Ring 227 a is preferably centered on first axis B. Preferably, teeth 227 b are formed on a lower portion of the inner surface of ring 227 a. Ring 227 a includes a first portion 227 c and a second portion 227 d of increased height as measured from the platform 261. The first portion 227 c and second portion 227 d preferably are opposed from one another and extend approximately between 60 and 110 degrees about base 227, but most preferably approximately 90 degrees. Cap 241 is attached to first portion 227 c and second portion 227 d such that windows 228 are formed between cap 241 and ring 227 a. Preferably the windows extend over at least that portion of ring 227 a that includes teeth 227 b. Ring 227 a also includes a shoulder 227 e formed above teeth 227 b about the inner circumference of ring 227 a.

As described above, bezel 237 is rotatably attached to base 227 about first axis B. Bezel 237 has two opposed arcuate portions 237 a connected by a central bar 237 b. The arcuate portions each have a lower surface 237 e dimensioned to contact shoulder 227 e of base 227, and an outer arcuate surface 237 c dimensioned to contact the inner surface of first and second portions 227 c, 227 d. When disposed within housing 240, bezel 237 is thus captured between cap 241 and base 227 and is freely rotatable with respect to base 227. Arcuate portions 237 a each may have a reduced diameter portion 237 d that together with outer surface 237 c form a shoulder 237E Shoulder 237 f thus provides clearance for cap 241 to be attached to first portion 227 c and second portion 227 d and permits bezel 237 to freely rotate between cap 241 and base 227.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 9, cap 241 preferably has an opening to permit clip 250 to extend through cap 241 and be releasably attached to bezel 237. Bezel 237 may have one or more guideholes 237 g in a top surface to guide the user when clip 250 is attached to bezel 237. Preferably, guideholes 237 g are configured to permit clip 250 to attach to bezel only in a single orientation.

Housing 240 is configured to receive therein a first male ratchet member 270 and a second male ratchet member 271. Male ratchet members 270, 271 are captured within base 227 and cap 241 so as to be rotatable with respect to the base 227 within window 228. First male ratchet member 270 has a first opening 270 a and a second opening 270 b, spaced apart from first opening 270 a, formed in an inner surface of first male ratchet member 270. Similarly, second male ratchet member 271 has a first opening 271 a and a second opening 271 b, spaced apart from first opening 271 a, formed in an inner surface of second male ratchet member 271. One of the male ratchet member 270 and second male ratchet member 271 is configured to receive a first end of a first ratchet pin 272 and a second ratchet pin 273 in openings 270 a, 270 b or 271 a, 271 b. The other of the male ratchet member 270 and second male ratchet member 271 is configured to receive one end each of a pair of ratchet springs 274 in openings 270 a, 270 b or 271 a, 271 b. The other end of ratchet springs 274 are received on the second end of first ratchet pin 272 and a second ratchet pin 273. Ratchet pins 270, 271 are attached to bezel 237.

Referring more particularly to FIG. 9, first male ratchet member 270 and second male ratchet member 271 each have an inner portion 270 c, 271 c and an outer portion 270 d, 271 d and an arm 270 e, 271 e connect that connects the inner portions to the outer portions. Arms 270 e, 271 e are dimensioned to extend through window 228 formed between base 227 and cap 241, and accommodate the thickness of ring 227 a. Each outer portion 270 d, 271 d extends substantially perpendicularly from the arm and has a height that is greater than the height of window 228. Each outer portion 270 d, 271 d has an outer grip surface 270 h, 271 h and an inner surface 270 f, 271 f that preferably is shaped such that as the respective ratchet member is moved about the base and cap, inner surfaces 270 f, 271 f are not impeded by the base or cap. Preferably, the inner surface of the outer portions are arcuate and defines an arc of a circle that is slightly larger than that defined by the base or cap.

Inner portions 270 c, 271 c of ratchet members 270, 271 are configured to closely mate with bezel 237 when ratchet members 270 c, 271 c are assembled within housing 240 such that when the ratchet members are rotated, bezel 237 also rotates. Ratchet members 270, 271 are formed with at least one ratchet tooth 270 g, 271 g (see FIG. 10A) on the respective outer surfaces of the inner portions 270 c, 271 c. Each of the ratchet teeth 270 g, 271 g are disposed between inner portions 270 c, 271 c and outer portions the 270 d, 271 d and below arms 270 c, 271 c. Ratchet teeth 270 g, 271 g are shaped to engage the teeth 227 b of base 227 or the space defined therebetween. When assembled within housing 240, ratchet teeth 270 g, 271 g of male ratchet members 270, 271 are spring biased to engage teeth 227 b of base 227. A user may impart a compressive force on the opposed grip surfaces 270 h, 271 h of ratchet members, which acts against springs 274, which serves to reduce the distance between the distal end of ratchet teeth 270 g, 271 g such that ratchet teeth 270 c, 271 c disengage from base teeth 227 b.

In this way, bezel 237, which is directly connected to ratchet members 270, 271, may then be rotated with respect to base 227. Teeth 227 b and ratchet teeth 270 c, 271 c are configured such that rotating bezel 237 angularly by one tooth will adjust the bezel 237 by a known angular increment, which in turn adjusts guide arm 230 (which is directly attached to bezel 237) by the same angular amount. Preferably, each base tooth is spaced apart from a next tooth by approximately three to ten degrees, but most preferably five degrees.

Referring to FIG. 11C, cap 241 may have indicia printed thereon to indicate the amount of anteversion guide arm 230 will provide when bezel 237 is rotated relative to base 227 and shaft 221. Preferably, the indicia would include a “0” marking aligned with longitudinal axis A, and have tick or numeric markings indicating the degree of anteversion on either side of the “0” marking provided when guide arm 230 is rotated in either direction. Alignment guide 220 is designed to be used on either the left or right leg. Hence, the measurement of anteversion depends on which leg the alignment guide is being used.

Referring to FIG. 8, as described above, clip 250 serves to releasably attach guide arm 230 to housing 240 and more particularly, bezel 237. In a preferred embodiment, clip 250 includes a locking plate 251, a post 252 extending from a top surface thereof, and at least two stakes 251 a extending from a bottom surface thereof. Stakes 251 a are dimensioned and spaced such that they may be received within guide holes 237 g of bezel 237. In a preferred embodiment, one of stakes 251 a is configured to mate with a first guide hole 237 g and the other of stakes 251 a is configured to mate with a second guide hole 237 g such that plate 251 mates with bezel 237 in only one orientation. That is, the mating components 251 a and 237 g are configured such that each of the two different stakes 251 a is shaped and/or sized to fit in only one of each of the two different guideholes 237 g. As shown in FIG. 11C, locking plate 251 can include an indicator on a top surface that points to the tick or numeric markings on cap 241 when clip 250 is assembled with bezel 237.

Post 252 includes a lower portion 252 a that extends from a top surface of locking plate 251 and a upper portion 252 b that extends from lower portion 252 a. A shoulder 252 c is formed where the cross-sectional dimension of upper portion 252 b steps down from the cross-sectional dimension of lower portion 252 a. At least a portion of lower portion 252 a is threaded to receive a lock nut 254. A lock-nut spring 255 is disposed about upper portion 252 b between lock nut 254 and a spring cap 256. Spring cap 256 has a centrally located bore for receiving the distal end of first portion 232 of guide arm 230. The bore of spring cap 256 is configured to communicate with a similar bore in upper portion 252 b of post 252. Each of the bores is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of first portion 232 of guide arm 230.

Clip 250 includes a pair of levers 253 pivotably connected on opposing sides of lower portion 252 a of post 252. Levers 253 each have a pair of ears that are dimensioned to be disposed about one side of post 252. Each of the pair of ears has a pinhole that communicates with a throughhole that passes through opposing sides of lower portion 252 a when levers 253 are engaged with post 252. A pin disposed through the pair of ears of levers 253 and the throughhole of post 252 pivotably connects each of levers 253 to post 252. Levers 253 each have a lower lip 253 a that engages at least the sides and preferably the underside of central bar 237 b when levers 253 are in a first position at which point lock nut 254 is screwed down onto lower portion 252 a of post 252.

When lock nut 254 is positioned distally on lower portion 252 a, lock nut 254 contacts an upper surface of levers 253 to prevent levers 253 from rotating with respect to each other thereby preventing lips 253 a from disengaging from bezel 237. Spring lock 255 maintains a force on lock nut 254 to maintain it in the distal most position until the user backs off lock nut 254. When the user does so, levers 253 freely pivot about pins 258 so as to permit the user to disengage lips 253 a from bezel 237, which in turn permits the user to detach clip 250 (and guide arm 230) from bezel 237 (and shaft 221).

FIGS. 10A and 10B depict a detail top plan and bottom plan view of alignment guide 220 in a first position, wherein third portion 236 of guide arm 230 is aligned with the longitudinal axis A of shaft 221. Preferably, in this first position, guide arm 230 and shaft 221 are co-planar. Ratchet teeth 270 g, 271 g mate with base teeth 227 b of ring 227 a to prevent guide arm 230 from inadvertently moving relative to shaft 221. To rotate guide arm 230, the user applies a force to outer portions 270 d, 271 d to act against springs 274, which reduces the distance between the distal end of ratchet teeth 270 g, 271 g such that ratchet teeth 270 c, 271 c disengage from base teeth 227 b. The user may then rotate bezel 237 and guide arm 230 with respect to the longitudinal axis A of shaft 221. FIGS. 11A-C depict a detailed top plan, bottom plan and perspective view of alignment guide 220 in a second position, wherein third portion 236 of guide arm 230 is not aligned with the longitudinal axis A of shaft 221.

Referring to FIG. 18, a fourth embodiment of the alignment guide is generally referenced as reference numeral 320. Alignment guide 320 includes a shaft 321, having a longitudinal axis A, a guide arm, generally referred to as element 330, which is rotatable with respect to shaft 321, and a spirit level 380 attached to guide arm 330. This embodiment differs from the prior embodiments in that it includes spirit level 380, which facilitates the use of the alignment guide by making it easier for the user to visualize when the alignment guide is in the planned orientation. For example, it may be difficult for the surgeon to judge whether the guide arm is aligned with the patient axis while he or she is holding the device. As such, the spirit level provides an additional indicator allowing the surgeon to check the angle without having to alter his or her viewing position.

As with prior embodiments, alignment guide 320 may be attached to a cup or trial 340 at distal end 322 of shaft 321. Alignment guide 320 may include a handle 324 attached at proximal end of shaft 321. Guide arm 330 may be attached to shaft 321 such that shaft 321 and guide arm 330 are co-planar in a first position. Guide arm 330 is preferably configured such that guide arm 330 may be rotated to a second position about a first axis B, which is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A, at which position guide arm 330 is out of plane with shaft 321. Guide arm 330 may be configured to be rotated with respect to shaft 321 using any of the mechanisms described with respect to the prior embodiments described herein. For example, guide arm 330 may be configured to be detached and then reattached to shaft 321 at a different angular position. Alternatively, guide arm 330 may be attached to shaft 321 via the mechanisms described in connection with the embodiments shown in FIGS. 6-11.

Guide arm 330 can include a first portion 332, a second portion 334 and a third portion 336. Preferably, first portion 332, second portion 334 and third portion 336 of guide arm 330 are co-planar. First portion 332 is attachable to shaft 321 and is rotatable about a first axis B that is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A. In a preferred embodiment, the distal end of first portion 332 transitions smoothly to second portion 334, which extends along a second axis C at an angle α with respect to first axis B. In a preferred embodiment, first predetermined angle α ranges from 30 to 50 degrees, and more preferably approximately 40 degrees. Third portion 336 may be attached at the distal end of second portion 334 or at some point along the length of first portion 334. In a preferred embodiment, the distal end of second portion 334 transitions smoothly to third portion 336. Third portion 336 extends from second portion 334 at a second predetermined angle γ along a third axis D. In a preferred embodiment, second predetermined angle γ is approximately 90 degrees.

Referring to FIG. 20A, guide arm 330 includes a housing 331 that is attached to shaft 321 on one side and to first portion 332 on an opposite side. Housing 331 may, for example, be configured like housing 132 in FIG. 5 or housing 240 in FIG. 6. Housing 331 should in any respect have a stationary part that is attached to the shaft (like base 27 depicted in FIG. 4) and a part that rotates with respect to the stationary part (like cover 37 depicted in FIG. 4). In this way, guide arm 330 is rotatable with respect to shaft 321 about first axis B. FIG. 20B depicts third portion 336 at a rotated (or anteverted) position with respect to shaft 321 to an angle designated as δ. Angle δ is typically between 0 and 35 degrees, and may be adjustable at known angular increments of, for instance one to ten degrees, but most preferably five degree increments. As shown in FIG. 20B, angle δ is approximately 20 degrees. One skilled in the art will recognize that guide arm 330 need not be rotated at the outset of the method, but could be adjusted at any time during the method and may be adjusted more than once depending upon the surgeon's preference or need to refine the ultimate location of the trial or cup.

Referring to FIG. 18, spirit level 380 may be interposed between portion 334 and 336 or attached to portion 336 or portion 334. Spirit level 380 includes a housing 380 a, a first elongate tube 381 and a second elongate tube 382, each at least partially disposed within housing 380 a. First elongate tube 381 and second elongate tube 382 are preferably made of a clear plastic. First elongate tube 381 is aligned with axis D of third portion 336. Second elongate tube 382 is oriented perpendicularly to first tube 381. Each of first and second tubes 381, 382 contains a liquid within which a bubble is disposed. Bubble 386 is disposed or captured within tube 381 and bubble 387 is disposed or captured within tube 382. Tubes 381, 382 have markings 388, 389 that indicate when bubbles 386, 387 are centered within tubes 381, 382, whereat the bubbles are at the “zero position”. When bubbles 386 and 387 are centered within their respective tubes 381 and 382, as shown in FIG. 18, and cup 340 is positioned against the patient's prepared acetabulum, then shaft 321 is located at the planned orientation. When one or both of bubbles are not at the zero position, then the user needs to reposition guide arm 330 until the bubbles are approximately at the zero position.

Referring to FIG. 19, a fifth embodiment of the alignment guide is generally referenced as reference numeral 420. Alignment guide 420 includes a shaft 421, having a longitudinal axis A, a guide arm, generally referred to as element 430, which is rotatable with respect to shaft 421, and a spirit level 480 attached to guide arm 430. This embodiment, as with the fourth embodiment, differs from those embodiments that went before the fourth embodiment in that it includes spirit level 480, which facilitates the use of the alignment guide by making it easier for the user to visualize when the alignment guide is in the planned orientation. For example, it may be difficult for the surgeon to judge whether the guide arm is aligned with the patient axis while he or she is holding the device. As such, the spirit level provides an additional indicator allowing the surgeon to check the angle without having to alter his or her viewing position.

As with prior embodiments, alignment guide 420 may be attached to a cup or trial 440 at distal end 422 of shaft 421. Alignment guide 420 may include a handle 424 attached at proximal end of shaft 421. Guide arm 430 may be attached to shaft 421 such that shaft 421 and guide arm 430 are co-planar in a first position. Guide arm 430 is preferably configured such that guide arm 430 may be rotated to a second position about a first axis B, which is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A, at which position guide arm 430 is out of plane with shaft 421. Guide arm 430 may be configured to be rotated with respect to shaft 421 using any of the mechanisms described with respect to the prior embodiments described herein. For example, guide arm 430 may be configured to be detached and then reattached to shaft 421 at a different angular position. Alternatively, guide arm 430 may be attached to shaft 421 via the mechanisms described in connection with the embodiments shown in FIGS. 6-11.

Guide arm 430 can include a first portion 432, a second portion 434 and a third portion 436. Preferably, first portion 432, second portion 434 and third portion 436 of guide arm 430 are co-planar. First portion 432 is attachable to shaft 421 and is rotatable about a first axis B that is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A. In a preferred embodiment, the distal end of first portion 432 transitions smoothly to second portion 434, which extends along a second axis C at an angle α with respect to first axis B. In a preferred embodiment, first predetermined angle α ranges from 30 to 50 degrees, and more preferably approximately 40 degrees. Third portion 436 may be attached at the distal end of second portion 434 or at some point along the length of first portion 434. In a preferred embodiment, the distal end of second portion 434 transitions smoothly to third portion 436. Third portion 436 extends from second portion 434 at a second predetermined angle γ along a third axis D. In a preferred embodiment, second predetermined angle γ is approximately 90 degrees.

Referring to FIG. 22A, guide arm 430 includes a housing 431 that is attached to shaft 421 on one side and to first portion 432 on an opposite side. Housing 431 may, for example, be configured like housing 132 in FIG. 5 or housing 240 in FIG. 6. Housing 431 should in any respect have a stationary part that is attached to the shaft (like base 27 depicted in FIG. 4) and a part that rotates with respect to the stationary part (like cover 37 depicted in FIG. 4). In this way, guide arm 430 is rotatable with respect to shaft 421 about first axis B. FIG. 22B depicts third portion 436 at a rotated (or anteverted) position with respect to shaft 421 to an angle designated as δ. Angle δ is typically between 0 and 35 degrees, and may be adjustable at known angular increments of, for instance one to ten degrees, but most preferably five degree increments. As shown in FIG. 22B, angle δ is approximately 20 degrees. One skilled in the art will recognize that guide arm 430 need not be rotated at the outset of the method, but could be adjusted at any time during the method and may be adjusted more than once depending upon the surgeon's preference or need to refine the ultimate location of the trial or cup.

Referring to FIG. 19, spirit level 480 may be interposed between portion 434 and 436 or attached to portion 436 or portion 434. Spirit level 480 includes a housing 480 a and a circular container 481 at least partially disposed within housing 480 a. Container 481 is preferably made of a clear plastic. Container 481 contains a liquid within which a bubble 487 is disposed or captured. Container 481 preferably has a marking 488 located at a known position, preferably the center of container 481, that indicates when bubble 486 is at the “zero position”. When bubbles 487 is approximately centered beneath marking 488, as shown in FIG. 19, and cup 440 is positioned against the patient's prepared acetabulum, then shaft 421 is located at the planned orientation. When bubble 487 is not at the zero position, then the user needs to reposition guide arm 430 until bubble 487 is approximately at the zero position.

In each of the fourth and fifth embodiments described herein, shaft 321, 421 may be attachable directly to cup or trial or attachable to a separate component that is itself attachable to a cup or trial. The separate component need not be aligned with longitudinal axis A along its entire length, but preferably attaches to a cup or trial at a point that is collinear with longitudinal axis A or at least parallel to longitudinal axis A. Thus, shaft 321,421 may be a short shaft that is attachable to an inserter shaft that is attachable to a cup or trial. Alternatively, shaft 421 may have a proximal portion that defines longitudinal axis A and a distal portion that is curved and/or has at least two lengths that are not parallel to longitudinal axis A.

Alignment guide 220 may be used in a surgical procedure to assist with correctly aligning surgical instruments. Referring to FIGS. 12-17, two methods of using alignment guide 20, 120, 220 are depicted. FIGS. 12-17 are schematic in that they do not show the cup or trial 40 that is attached to shaft 21 of guide 220 as being positioned within the prepared acetabulum, which in practice would be the case. Instead, they show the cup or trial 40 positioned just above the location of the prepared acetabulum. Other than the step of rotating the guide arm to set the anteversion angle, the method of using alignment guides 20, 120, 220 is the same regardless of which of the embodiments is used. As such, it is understood that, in the absence of language that indicates otherwise, reference to alignment guide 20, 120 or 220 and the elements of any one of those alignment guides applies equally to the other of those alignment guides.

Alignment guide 20, 120, 220 helps to reduce misalignment of the implant and therefore helps to minimize wear of the implant. At the outset of the procedure, the patient is positioned on the operating table such that the patient is perpendicular to the table. In this way, the patient's pelvis is aligned such that it is vertical and not tilted with respect to the long (sagittal) axis of the body. The patient is typically constrained in one of two different ways to minimize movement during surgery. FIGS. 12-14 depict a first method of using alignment guides 20, 120, 220 on a patient lying on his left side in the left lateral decubitus position. FIGS. 15-17 depict a second method of using alignment guides 20, 120, 220 on a patient lying in the prone or dorsal decubitus position.

As a first surgical step, the surgeon accesses the joint via a series of incisions and dislocates the femur. The surgeon next uses a reamer to remove bone to form a hemispherical shape in the acetabulum. The reamed acetabulum enables a nearly unlimited number of angular cup positions as the cup may be seated at any angle within the hemisphere. As a result, there is no necessary correct orientation for an implanted cup. Instead, the surgeon seeks to align the cup in a particular orientation so as to mate with the implanted femoral component of the hip system using his or her experience and local landmarks.

Referring to FIGS. 12-14, to align the trial or cup for seating within the acetabulum, the surgeon attaches the cup or trial 40 to alignment guide 20 at distal end 22 of shaft 21. Prior to positioning the cup or trial, guide arm 30 should be attached to shaft 21. If the surgeon/user is utilizing the simpler alignment guide embodiments 20, 120, referring to FIGS. 3-5, he or she simply engages the mating components 38, 39 of cover 37, 137 with the mating components 28, 29 of base 27, 127. To do so when using guide 220, and referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the user ensures that lock nut 254 is backed off to the stop position (the underside of spring cap 256) to permit levers 253 of clip 250 to pivot with respect to one another. The user may then attach guide arm 230 to bezel 237. Clip 250 and bezel 237 are configured such that they can be assembled only in one orientation. Guide arm 230 is attached to shaft 221 by holding back levers 253 and inserting stakes 251 a into guideholes 237 g such that plate 251 is seated on the top surface of bezel 237. When clip 250 is held in this position, lips 253 a engage at least the sides and preferably the underside of central bar 237 b. At this stage, lock nut 254 is threaded down onto lower portion 252 a of post 252 until the distal surface of lock nut 254 contacts a proximal surface of levers 253, thereby ensuring that levers 253 cannot pivot relative to bar 237 b. In this position, guide arm 230 is secured to shaft 221.

At this point, the trial or acetabular implant 40 can be screwed onto the distal tip of the alignment guide, taking care not to damage the implant or the screw threads. The cup should be screwed on until tight against the shoulder in order to prevent damage to the threads and the cup during impaction.

Once the cup is assembled onto the alignment guide/inserter, when using alignment guide 220, the user may select the desired anteversion by rotating bezel 237. To do so, as described above, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the user presses on the opposed grip surfaces 270 h, 271 h of ratchet members 270, 271, which disengage ratchet teeth 270 c, 271 c from base teeth 227 b. The user may rotate bezel 237 freely and the bezel to the desired anteversion. Anteversion is most preferably available in 5 degree increments between 0 and 35 degrees. The user needs to take care to ensure that the correct version is used as determined by the hip that is being operated upon; i.e. the left or right hip. Once the desired anteversion is achieved, the user releases grip surfaces 270 h, 271 h to re-engage ratchet teeth 270 c, 271 c with base teeth 227 b.

If the surgeon/user is utilizing the simpler alignment guide embodiments 20, 120, referring to FIGS. 3-5, he or she simply disengages either cover 37, 137 from base 27, 127, and rotates cover 37, 137 with respect to shaft 21, 121. Once the desired anteversion is achieved cover 37, 137 is re-engaged with base 27, 127 by mating the protrusions and tabs with their corresponding recesses and slots.

The user next positions the alignment guide 20, 120, 220 so as to locate the acetabular component in the prepared acetabulum. FIGS. 12-14 schematically depict a first method of using one of the first, second or third alignment guides 20, 120, 220 on a patient lying on his left side in a left lateral decubitus position. FIG. 12A depicts a side elevational view and FIG. 12B depicts the corresponding top plan view of a first step of a preferred method, wherein the user holds the cup or trial 40 in the prepared acetabulum and uses alignment guide 20 to position the cup in a pre-planned orientation. Once in the pre-planned orientation, the user may modify that orientation depending on how the cup is aligned with respect to how the implant fits with the patient using, for example, the patient's anatomic landmarks (such as the transverse acetabular ligament, bilateral anterosuperior iliac spines, the acetabular labrum and the upper margin of the pubic symphysis) or other factors specific to the patient.

As depicted in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the user positions alignment guide 20 using handle 24 such that shaft 21 is substantially parallel to horizontal (defined as being the level of the operating table, designated as T) and in line with the long axis of the patient. Note that portion 36 has been rotated (or anteverted) with respect to shaft 21 to an angle designated as δ. As described above, angle δ is typically between 0 and 35 degrees. As shown, angle δ is approximately 20 degrees. One skilled in the art will recognize that guide arm 30 need not be rotated at the outset of the method, but could be adjusted at any time during the method and may be adjusted more than once depending upon the surgeon's preference or need to refine the ultimate location of the trial or cup.

Next, referring to FIGS. 13A and 13B, the user, while maintaining the position of cup or trial 40 relative to the patient's prepared acetabulum, grasps handle 24 and sets the inclination angle by moving handle 24 toward the head of the patient or anteriorly. In doing so, the shaft 21 is pivoted about a fixed point in the acetabulum until portion 36 of guide arm 30 is substantially parallel to the operating table when viewed from the side of the table (as depicted in the side elevational view of FIG. 13A). Typically, the inclination angle is between 35 and 55 degrees, and preferably 45 degrees, as is depicted in FIG. 13A.

Referring to FIGS. 14A, 14B and 14C, the user next sets the anteversion angle and positions the alignment guide in its final position. As with the prior two sets of figures,

FIGS. 14A and 14B are respectively side elevational and top plan views of alignment guide 20 positioned in the final position. FIG. 14C is a perspective view of the patient with the alignment guide in the final position. In transitioning the alignment guide from the position depicted in the prior set of figures, while maintaining the position of cup or trial 40 relative to the patient's prepared acetabulum, the user grasps handle 24 and anteverts handle 24. That is, the user moves handle 24 toward the front or anterior of the patient. In doing so, the shaft 21 is pivoted about a fixed point in the acetabulum until portion 36 of guide arm 30 is substantially parallel to the operating table when viewed from the side of the table (as depicted in the side elevational view of FIG. 14A) and is substantially parallel to the long axis LA of the patient (as viewed in the top plan view of FIGS. 14B and 14C). In order to achieve the position of being substantially parallel to both the long axis of the patient and the operating table, the user must drop proximal end of handle 24 medially toward the patient's body as handle 24 is pivoted anteriorly. This motion ensures that the user closes down the inclination angle while anteverting the cup such that the operative inclination angle as viewed from the side elevational view substantially matches the sought radiographic inclination angle.

FIGS. 15-17 depict a second method of using alignment guides 20, 120, 220 on a patient lying in the prone or dorsal decubitus position. FIG. 15A depicts a side elevational view and FIG. 15B depicts the corresponding top plan view of a first step of a second preferred method, wherein the user holds the cup or trial 40 in the prepared acetabulum and uses alignment guide 20 to position the cup in a pre-planned orientation. Once in the pre-planned orientation, the user may modify that orientation depending on how the cup is aligned with respect to how the implant fits with the patient using, for example, the patient's anatomic landmarks or other factors specific to the patient.

As depicted in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the user positions alignment guide 20 using handle 24 such that shaft 21 is substantially parallel to horizontal (defined as being the level of the operating table, designated as T) and in line with the long axis of the patient. Note that portion 36 has been rotated (or anteverted) with respect to shaft 21 to an angle designated as δ. As described above, angle δ is typically between 0 and 35 degrees. As shown, angle δ is approximately 20 degrees. One skilled in the art will recognize that guide arm 30 need not be rotated at the outset of the method, but could be adjusted at any time during the method and may be adjusted more than once depending upon the surgeon's preference or need to refine the ultimate location of the trial or cup.

Next, referring to FIGS. 16A and 16B, the user, while maintaining the position of cup or trial 40 relative to the patient's prepared acetabulum, grasps handle 24 and sets the inclination angle by moving handle 24 toward the head of the patient or anteriorly. In doing so, the shaft 21 is pivoted about a fixed point in the acetabulum until portion 36 of guide arm 30 is substantially parallel to the long axis of the patient when viewed from the top of the table (as depicted in the top plan view of FIG. 16B). Typically, the inclination angle is between 35 and 55 degrees, and preferably 45 degrees, as is depicted in FIG. 16B.

Referring to FIGS. 17A, 17B and 17C, the user next sets the anteversion angle and positions the alignment guide in its final position. As with the prior two sets of figures, FIGS. 17A and 17B are respectively side elevational and top plan views of the alignment guide 20 positioned in the final position. FIG. 17C is a perspective view of the patient with the alignment guide in the final position. In transitioning the alignment guide from the position depicted in the prior set of figures, while maintaining the position of cup or trial 40 relative to the patient's prepared acetabulum, the user grasps handle 24 and anteverts handle 24. That is, the user moves handle 24 toward the front or anterior of the patient. In doing so, the shaft 21 is pivoted about a fixed point in the acetabulum until portion 36 of guide arm 30 is substantially parallel to the operating table when viewed from the side of the table (as depicted in the side elevational view of FIG. 17A) and is substantially parallel to the long axis LA of the patient (as viewed in the top plan view of FIGS. 17B and 17C). In order to achieve the position of being substantially parallel to both the long axis of the patient and the operating table, the user must drop proximal end of handle 24 medially toward the patient's body as handle 24 is pivoted anteriorly. This motion ensures that the user closes down the inclination angle while anteverting the cup such that the operative inclination angle as viewed from the side elevational view substantially matches the sought radiographic inclination angle.

FIGS. 20A-20C depict a third method of using an alignment guide 320 on a patient lying on his left side in a left lateral decubitus position. FIG. 20A depicts a side elevational view of a first step of a third preferred method, and FIGS. 20B and 20C depict top plan views of a second and third step of the third preferred method, wherein the user holds the cup or trial 340 in the prepared acetabulum and uses alignment guide 320 to position the cup in a pre-planned orientation. Once in the pre-planned orientation, the user may modify that orientation depending on how the cup is aligned with respect to how the implant fits with the patient using, for example, the patient's anatomic landmarks or other factors specific to the patient.

As graphically depicted in FIG. 20A, the surgeon or user grasps alignment guide 320 using handle 324 and positions the cup or trial 340 against the patient's prepared acetabulum. Holding cup or trial 340 in this position, the surgeon orients shaft 321 such that shaft 321 is substantially parallel to horizontal (defined as being the level of the operating table, designated as T) and in line with the long axis of the patient. At this stage, alignment guide is being held at 0 degrees inclination and 0 degrees version. As shown in FIG. 21A, bubble 386 of tube 381 is in a forward position (because the planned inclination orientation in this example is 45 degrees) and bubble 387 is shown in the zero position, substantially between markings 389. Next, the surgeon can set the planned version angle by rotating guide arm 330 relative to shaft 321. The user may rotate portion 336 either to the left or right position as shown in FIGS. 21B and 21D, depending on which hip the surgeon is operating on.

With reference to FIG. 20B, guide arm 336 has been rotated (or anteverted) with respect to shaft 321 to an angle designated as δ. As described above, angle δ is typically between 0 and 35 degrees. At this stage, the surgeon, while maintaining contact between the prepared acetabulum and cup or trial 340, pivots shaft 321 about that contact point to a pre-planned inclination angle, indicated to be 45 degrees in FIG. 21B. To do so, the surgeon pivots the handle 324 from the position depicted in FIG. 20A toward the patient's head or anteriorly (or out of the page when viewing FIG. 20B). In doing so, shaft 321 is pivoted about a fixed point in the acetabulum until portion 336 of guide arm 330 is substantially parallel to the operating table when viewed from the side of the table (as depicted in the side elevational view of FIG. 20A). Typically, the inclination angle is between 35 and 55 degrees, and preferably 45 degrees, as is depicted in FIG. 20B. Once the surgeon has reached 45 degrees, bubble 386 will be at the zero position in tube 381, as shown in FIGS. 20B and 21B. At this position, bubble 387 of tube 382 will not be at its zero position because shaft 321 has not been pivoted in the version plane.

Referring to FIGS. 20C and 21C, the user next positions the alignment guide in its final position. FIG. 20C is a top plan view of the patient with alignment guide 330 in the final, pre-planned position. In transitioning the alignment guide from the position depicted in FIG. 20B, the user, while maintaining the position of cup or trial 340 relative to the patient's prepared acetabulum, grasps handle 324 and anteverts handle 324. That is, the user moves handle 324 toward the front or anterior of the patient. In doing so, the shaft 321 is pivoted about a fixed point in the acetabulum until portion 336 of guide arm 330 is substantially parallel to the operating table when viewed from the side of the table (as depicted in the side elevational view of FIG. 20A) and is substantially parallel to the long axis LA of the patient (as viewed in the top plan view of FIG. 20C). In order to achieve the position of being substantially parallel to both the long axis of the patient and the operating table, the user must drop proximal end of handle 324 medially toward the patient's body as handle 334 is pivoted anteriorly. This motion ensures that the user closes down the inclination angle while anteverting the cup such that the operative inclination angle as viewed from the side elevational view substantially matches the sought radiographic inclination angle. When the user has achieved the correct orientation of handle 324, as shown in FIG. 21C, bubbles 386 and 387 of tubes 381 and 382 will each be at least approximately in their respective zero position, centered within markings 388 and 389, respectively.

One skilled in the art will recognize that guide arm 336 need not be rotated at the outset of the method, but could be adjusted at any time during the method and may be adjusted more than once depending upon the surgeon's preference or need to refine the ultimate location of the trial or cup. Thus, the user may choose to estimate the how much he or she wants to antevert the guide arm and adjust it prior to surgery or adjust for anteversion while orienting the alignment guide and/or trialling the cup component. In addition, the user need not perform each of the steps depicted in FIGS. 20A-20C to achieve the pre-planned position of the cup.

While the above methods of using alignment guide 320 are described (and shown) as separate distinct steps for purposes of illustration, it is understood that one skilled in the art can adjust for version or inclination using separate steps or simply align portion 336 such that it is both substantially parallel to the operating table when viewed from the side of the table (in the side elevational view) and is substantially parallel to the long axis LA of the patient when viewed from above the table (in the top plan view), using the bubble indicators in spirit level 380 as a guide. Spirit level 380 thus facilitates visualisation of the final pre-planned position in that the surgeon can check the angle of guide arm 330 without having to alter his or her viewing position.

FIGS. 22A-22C depict a fourth method of using an alignment guide 420 on a patient lying on his left side in a left lateral decubitus position. FIG. 20A depicts a side elevational view of a first step of a third preferred method, and FIGS. 22B and 22C depict top plan views of a second and third step of the fourth preferred method, wherein the user holds the cup or trial 440 in the prepared acetabulum and uses alignment guide 420 to position the cup in a pre-planned orientation. Once in the pre-planned orientation, the user may modify that orientation depending on how the cup is aligned with respect to how the implant fits with the patient using, for example, the patient's anatomic landmarks or other factors specific to the patient.

As graphically depicted in FIG. 22A, the surgeon or user grasps alignment guide 420 using handle 424 and positions the cup or trial 440 against the patient's prepared acetabulum. Holding cup or trial 440 in this position, the surgeon orients shaft 421 such that shaft 421 is substantially parallel to horizontal (defined as being the level of the operating table, designated as T) and in line with the long axis of the patient. At this stage, alignment guide is being held at 0 degrees inclination and 0 degrees version. As shown in FIG. 23A, bubble 486 of container 481 is in a forward position (because the planned inclination orientation in this example is 45 degrees). Next, the surgeon can set the planned version angle by rotating guide arm 430 relative to shaft 421. The user may rotate portion 436 either to the left or right position as shown in FIGS. 23B and 23D, depending on which hip the surgeon is operating on.

With reference to FIG. 22B, guide arm 436 has been rotated (or anteverted) with respect to shaft 421 to an angle designated as δ. As described above, angle δ is typically between 0 and 35 degrees. At this stage, the surgeon, while maintaining contact between the prepared acetabulum and cup or trial 440, pivots shaft 421 about that contact point to a pre-planned inclination angle, indicated to be 45 degrees in FIG. 23B. To do so, the surgeon pivots the handle 424 from the position depicted in FIG. 22A toward the patient's head or anteriorly (or out of the page when viewing FIG. 22B). In doing so, shaft 421 is pivoted about a fixed point in the acetabulum until portion 436 of guide arm 430 is substantially parallel to the operating table when viewed from the side of the table (as depicted in the side elevational view of FIG. 22A). Typically, the inclination angle is between 35 and 55 degrees, and preferably 45 degrees, as is depicted in FIG. 22B. Once the surgeon has reached 45 degrees, bubble 486 will not be at the zero position in container 381, as shown in FIGS. 22B and 23B. Instead, bubble 486 may move to one side of marking 488 (shown in FIG. 23 as a circle with “45°” printed within the circle).

Referring to FIGS. 22C and 23C, the user next positions the alignment guide in its final position. FIG. 22C is a top plan view of the patient with alignment guide 430 in the final, pre-planned position. In transitioning the alignment guide from the position depicted in FIG. 22B, the user, while maintaining the position of cup or trial 440 relative to the patient's prepared acetabulum, grasps handle 424 and anteverts handle 424. That is, the user moves handle 424 toward the front or anterior of the patient. In doing so, the shaft 421 is pivoted about a fixed point in the acetabulum until portion 436 of guide arm 430 is substantially parallel to the operating table when viewed from the side of the table (as depicted in the side elevational view of FIG. 22A) and is substantially parallel to the long axis LA of the patient (as viewed in the top plan view of FIG. 22C). In order to achieve the position of being substantially parallel to both the long axis of the patient and the operating table, the user must drop proximal end of handle 424 medially toward the patient's body as handle 434 is pivoted anteriorly. This motion ensures that the user closes down the inclination angle while anteverting the cup such that the operative inclination angle as viewed from the side elevational view substantially matches the sought radiographic inclination angle. When the user has achieved the correct orientation of handle 424, as shown in FIG. 23C, bubble 386 of container 481 will be at least approximately beneath marking 488 in its zero position.

One skilled in the art will recognize that guide arm 436 need not be rotated at the outset of the method, but could be adjusted at any time during the method and may be adjusted more than once depending upon the surgeon's preference or need to refine the ultimate location of the trial or cup. Thus, the user may choose to estimate the how much he or she wants to antevert the guide arm and adjust it prior to surgery or adjust for anteversion while orienting the alignment guide and/or trialling the cup component. In addition, the user need not perform each of the steps depicted in FIGS. 22A-22C to achieve the pre-planned position of the cup.

While the above methods of using alignment guide 420 are described (and shown) as separate distinct steps for purposes of illustration, it is understood that one skilled in the art can adjust for version or inclination using separate steps or simply align portion 436 such that it is both substantially parallel to the operating table when viewed from the side of the table (in the side elevational view) and is substantially parallel to the long axis LA of the patient when viewed from above the table (in the top plan view), using the bubble indicator in spirit level 480 as a guide. Spirit level 480 thus facilitates visualisation of the final pre-planned position in that the surgeon can check the angle of guide arm 430 without having to alter his or her viewing position.

Once alignment guide 20, 120, 220, 320, 420 is in its final position, the user checks local landmarks proximate the acetabulum to ensure that the cup is located in a satisfactory position. Once a satisfactory position is achieved, the user impacts the acetabular component into position using the alignment guide/inserter. Prior to doing so, it is recommended that guide arm 30, 130, 230, 330, 430 be detached from shaft 21, 121, 221, 321, 421. Further modifications to, and applications of, the present invention will be readily apparent to the skilled person from the teaching herein, without departing from the scope of the appended claims. 

1. An alignment guide, comprising: a shaft having a longitudinal axis; a housing attached to the shaft and rotatable about a first axis that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; a guide arm that extends from the housing at a predetermined angle along a second axis; and a spirit level connected to the housing on a plane aligned with the predetermined angle, wherein the spirit level is a substantially ovate container partially filled with a liquid, and wherein the container has a bubble disposed therein, a center, and has at least one indicator marking oriented substantially at the center.
 2. The alignment guide of claim 1, wherein the spirit level comprises a first elongated tube, and a second elongated tube arranged to be perpendicular to the first elongated tube, the first tube being aligned with the longitudinal axis.
 3. The alignment guide of claim 2, wherein the first and second tubes each contain a liquid having a bubble disposed therein, and have respective first and second indicator lines that indicate a center position for a bubble that moves within each tube.
 4. The alignment guide of claim 3, wherein the first tube is adapted such that, when a bubble is in the center position of first tube, the shaft is at a pre-planned inclination angle.
 5. The alignment guide of claim 3, wherein the second tube is adapted such that, when a bubble is in the center position of second tube, the shaft is at a pre-planned version angle.
 6. The alignment guide of claim 1, wherein the predetermined angle ranges from 30 to 50 degrees.
 7. (canceled)
 8. The alignment guide of claim 7, wherein the spirit level is adapted such that, when a bubble is positioned beneath the at least one indicator marking, the shaft is at a pre-planned inclination and anteversion angle.
 9. The alignment guide of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a base attached to the shaft, and a plate rotatable about the first axis relative to the base, the first portion being attached to the plate. 10-13. (canceled) 